God’s Sovereignty and Israel’s Struggles
After Balaam’s encounter with his donkey and his warnings from God in Numbers 22, he now stands before Balak prepared to speak. Numbers 23–25 continue the account of Balak’s attempt to curse Israel through Balaam and the unexpected turn of events as God transforms intended curses into blessings.
In Numbers 23, Balak has taken Balaam to a high place to offer sacrifices. Balaam instructs Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven bulls and seven rams (v. 1-2). There is no biblical instruction or precedent for what Balaam did, so possibly the sacrifices were part of a pagan ritual. After the offerings were made, Balaam went off by himself to elicit a revelation from the Lord (v. 3). Balaam was still seeking to cooperate with the God of Israel even though his methods were not sanctioned in Israel’s Law. God met with him and gave him a message that he was to repeat to Balak (v. 4-5). When God met with Balaam, instead of cursing Israel, God put words in Balaam’s mouth that affirmed Israel’s blessing (v. 7-10).
Balaam’s first of four major oracles begins with a brief explanation of how he came to be there and the instructions he had received (v. 7). He then questions how he could possibly curse Israel, a nation that God Himself had blessed (v. 8). From his elevated vantage point, Balaam observes Israel, a people set apart who do not consider themselves like the other nations (v. 9). He describes them as numerous as the dust of the earth and acknowledges that being counted among them in life or death would be a blessing from God (v.10). In this moment, Balaam almost seems to desire a place among God’s people. Balak’s reaction is unsurprising—rather than cursing Israel, Balaam had pronounced a blessing (v. 11). However, Balaam could only reaffirm that he must speak the words the Lord had given him (v. 12).
Balak is furious and demands that Balaam try again, hoping that a different location might change God’s response (v. 13). This time, he takes Balaam to Mount Pisgah, believing that a new vantage point might allow for a curse. Again, they offer seven altars and sacrifices (v. 14). Once again, Balaam withdrew to a solitary place to seek the Lord, and once again, he returned to Balak with a message (v. 15-17).
In this next oracle, Balaam begins with a direct statement to Balak, declaring that the unchanging God of Israel had promised to bless His people and would not go back on His word (v. 18-19). Balaam himself had been commanded to bless Israel, and in light of God’s unwavering commitment, he had no power to do otherwise (v. 20). Balaam then emphasized that because of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, they enjoyed divine prosperity—free from misfortune and misery, as well as the Lord’s presence and supernatural strength (v. 21-22).
The phrase “the shout of the King” (v. 21) carries a militaristic tone, portraying God as a Warrior who leads His people to victory. This divine power renders sorcery and divination ineffective, leaving the surrounding nations with no choice but to marvel at God’s protection over Israel (v. 23). Israel would not be overcome by magic or human schemes. Instead, like a lion, they would rise and utterly defeat their enemies (v. 24). Balak, now even more frustrated, demands Balaam say nothing rather than bless Israel again (v. 25-26).
Still determined, Balak takes Balaam to a third location—Mount Peor (v. 27-28). He believes that from this new location, God might allow Balaam to curse Israel. Once again, Balaam instructed Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven bulls and seven rams for sacrifice. The chapter closes with Balak doing just as Balaam instructed, offering a bull and a ram on each altar (v. 29-30).
Numbers 23 teaches us that God’s blessings cannot be reversed. Balaam was hired to curse Israel, but he was powerless to do so because God had already declared them blessed. This reminds us that no human or spiritual force can undo what God has ordained. God’s plans for His people will always prevail. Are you trusting in God’s promises even when challenges arise? Nothing and no one can undo what God has planned for you.
Furthermore, Balaam’s second prophecy affirms that God is unchanging and faithful. Unlike people, He does not lie or change His mind. If He has spoken a promise, He will fulfill it. This truth gives us confidence that we can trust God’s Word, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Do you have unwavering confidence in God’s faithfulness? When doubt creeps in, remind yourself that His Word never fails.
Additionally, Balaam recognized that God’s presence was among Israel, ensuring their victory. He declared, “The shout of a King is among them,” meaning that God Himself was leading and protecting His people. This truth applies to us today—if God is with us, we do not need to fear opposition (Romans 8:31). God is our protector and strength. When we walk in obedience, we are under His care and protection. Are you relying on God’s strength in your battles, or are you trying to fight them alone?
Overall, Numbers 23 reminds us of God’s unshakable faithfulness and sovereign control over His people. Despite Balak’s attempts to manipulate Balaam into cursing Israel, God’s blessing remained firm—proving that no one can undo what God has declared. Let this passage challenge you to trust, obey, and rest in the security of God’s faithful hand.
Numbers 24 marks the conclusion of Balaam’s attempt to curse Israel under Balak’s orders. However, just as in Numbers 23, Balaam is unable to curse Israel because God has already blessed them. Because Balaam was a sorcerer, he would normally look for omens or signs to help him tell the future. However, unlike before, Balaam does not seek omens or divination but instead allows the Spirit of God to come upon him (v. 1-2). In this situation, it was clear that God himself was speaking, and so Balaam needed no other signs, real or imagined.
It is important to note that the arrival of the Spirit upon Balaam does not prove that he was a true prophet, just as the Spirit coming upon Saul (see 1 Sam. 10:6, 10-11) or the disciples (John 20:22) did not automatically make them prophets of the Lord. There is a distinction between the Spirit coming upon individuals to empower them for a specific purpose and the Spirit dwelling within them permanently (see John 7:39).
As Balaam looks upon Israel’s vast camp, he delivers a prophetic blessing (v. 3-9). This prophecy affirms God’s abundant blessings and protection over Israel. Balaam describes Israel as flourishing under God’s care, comparing them to lush gardens and mighty trees (v. 6). He also predicts that Israel’s future king will be powerful, greater than Agag—a title for Amalekite kings (v. 7). Furthermore, Balaam repeats God’s covenant promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:3: “Those who bless you will be blessed, and those who curse you will be cursed” (v. 9). Balak is again furious, demanding Balaam stop blessing Israel (v. 10-11). However, Balaam insists that he can only speak what God commands him (v. 12-14).
Balaam then delivers what is commonly considered a Messianic prophecy—a vision of a future King who will rise from Israel and conquer their enemies (v. 17-19). This prophecy is significant because it foreshadows the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Balaam concludes with oracles of judgment against Israel’s enemies (v. 20-24). After delivering these words, Balaam returns home, and Balak abandons his plans to curse Israel (v. 25). However, Balaam’s story is not over—he later leads Israel into sin, which results in his eventual downfall.
Numbers 24 reminds us once again that God’s plans cannot be thwarted, and His blessings are irrevocable. Despite Balak’s attempts to manipulate Balaam into cursing Israel, God’s will prevailed. Though Balaam was hired to curse Israel, he could only speak what God commanded because Israel was already blessed by Him. This demonstrates that when God declares something, no human or spiritual force can overturn it. Secondly, God’s promises are unchanging. This means we can live with confidence in God’s unchanging Word, trusting that what He has spoken, He will fulfill. Reflecting on the blessing of Israel, ask yourself: Do I live as though God’s favor is secure over my life, regardless of external circumstances or opposition? Embrace the truth that God’s Word cannot fail, and let it anchor your trust in Him.
Balaam’s final prophecy foreshadows the coming of a great King who will rule with power and righteousness. The prophecy of a coming King also challenges us to submit to Christ’s rule over our lives. Just as Israel’s future King will be greater than all earthly rulers, we are called to recognize Jesus as the true King of our hearts and lives. Surrender any areas where you are not living fully under His authority, and ask God to help you submit to His rule.
Lastly, the judgment upon Israel’s enemies reminds us that God’s eternal kingdom will prevail over all earthly powers, encouraging us to invest our lives in what is eternal, rather than the fleeting things of this world. Prioritize the eternal over the temporary. In a world that constantly pulls us toward the fleeting things of earth, remind yourself that God’s kingdom is everlasting, and let that shift your perspective on how you live and what you value. Are you living for earthly success or for Christ’s eternal kingdom?
Overall, just as God remained faithful to His promises for Israel, we can trust that His Word stands firm in our lives today. No opposition, no scheme of man, and no circumstance can override God’s purposes for His people. This passage challenges us to walk in confidence, knowing that God fights for us, blesses us, and secures our future in Him. Are you trusting in God’s sovereign plan, even when obstacles arise? Let Numbers 24 encourage you to stand firm in faith, trust in His promises, and rest in the assurance that His plans for you are good and unstoppable.
Numbers 25 marks a dark moment in Israel’s history, where idolatry and immorality lead to divine judgment. After receiving God’s blessing and promises, the Israelites find themselves succumbing to temptation and turning away from Him.
While Israel was camped at Shittim, the men of Israel began to indulge in sexual immorality with Moabite women (v. 1). These women invited the Israelites to join in the worship of Baal of Peor, a Canaanite fertility god (v. 2). Through this idolatry and immorality, Israel profaned their covenant with God. Their actions angered God and prompted His judgment, demonstrating how sin often leads to spiritual compromise, with one sin leading to another. Are there areas in your life where sin is leading to compromise? Sin may start small but can easily spread. Are you taking steps to remove temptation and stay pure? Reflect on any potential idols in your life—things that might be taking the place of God—and pray for purity and dedication to Him.
In response to Israel’s sin, God instructed Moses to take the leaders who had led Israel into sin and execute them publicly (v. 4). Additionally, a plague broke out, and 24,000 Israelites died as a result of their disobedience (v. 9). The plague was a clear sign of God’s judgment on Israel for their idolatry and immorality. This event emphasizes the seriousness of sin in the eyes of a holy God. Despite Israel’s chosen status, they were not exempt from God’s wrath when they turned away from Him. Sin has consequences, and God’s holiness demands that sin be dealt with swiftly. Are we grieving over sin as God does, or are we treating it lightly? Sin must be addressed—there is no place for it in the life of a believer. Are you walking in repentance, seeking God’s forgiveness and grace? Spend time confessing hidden sins and asking God to purify your heart.
Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the priest, takes decisive action when he witnesses an Israelite man and a Midianite woman in an act of immorality. Phinehas takes a spear and immediately kills both of them (v. 7-8). His action was seen as zealous for God’s honor, and because of his zeal, God’s wrath was turned away from Israel (v. 11). As a result, the plague stopped, and Phinehas was rewarded with a covenant of peace and a promise of an everlasting priesthood for his family (v. 12-13).
Phinehas’ actions are commended as righteous because he was zealous for God’s holiness. He was not content to allow sin to continue unchecked but acted swiftly to bring justice. His zeal for God contrasts with the spiritual complacency that allowed the idolatry and immorality to persist. Do we have zeal for God’s honor in our lives? When we see sin and compromise, are we taking action or allowing it to continue? How does your life reflect a desire for purity and holiness? Ask God to renew a zeal for His holiness in your heart. Pray for strength to take bold action against sin and be a witness to those around you.
In the final verses of this chapter, God commands Israel to treat the Midianites as enemies because they had led Israel into sin through their idolatry and sexual immorality (v. 16-18). This command foreshadows the upcoming war with the Midianites in Numbers 31, where Israel is to exact judgment for their role in Israel’s sin. God’s judgment on the Midianites demonstrates His righteousness in dealing with evil and the consequences of leading His people astray. This passage underscores that God’s people must remain separate from the world’s corrupting influences (2 Corinthians 6:17). What influences in your life are leading you away from God? Are there people or environments you need to distance yourself from to preserve your holiness? Pray for discernment in your relationships and environments, asking God to help you remain faithful to Him.
Numbers 25 teaches us the serious consequences of sin and the importance of remaining faithful to God. Phinehas’ zealous action reminds us that we should be passionate about God’s holiness, and when sin arises, we must be willing to act decisively. May we take sin seriously, pursue holiness, and always remain faithful to God’s covenant.
In conclusion, Numbers 23–25 illustrate both God’s protection and human weakness. While Balak sought to bring destruction upon Israel, God’s blessings could not be reversed. Yet, Israel’s downfall came not through an external curse, but through internal compromise. This serves as a warning—Satan’s greatest strategy is not always direct attack, but seduction into sin. As believers, we are called to trust in God’s promises, resist temptation, and walk in obedience. These chapters challenge us to recognize that while God’s blessings are sure, we must remain steadfast in faith and purity to experience His full favor.
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